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Juneau, AK

Juneau, AK

Explore Juneau, AK

Juneau, AK

Juneau, AK: The Wild Beauty of Alaska’s Capital

Juneau, Alaska, is a breathtaking destination surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and pristine waters. As the only U.S. capital city inaccessible by road, Juneau offers a unique mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring Mendenhall Glacier, spotting humpback whales, or discovering the area’s Gold Rush history, Juneau is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts, cruise travelers, and nature lovers alike.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Juneau, AK

    Juneau experiences a mild maritime climate, and the best time to visit depends on your activities:

    • May–September (Summer): Best for cruise travel, whale watching, and outdoor activities.
    • October–April (Winter): Ideal for snow sports, Northern Lights viewing, and fewer crowds.
    • July–August: Peak season for wildlife sightings and mild weather (50–65°F).

    • Mendenhall Glacier – One of Alaska’s most famous glaciers, offering hiking trails and iceberg views.
    • Tracy Arm Fjord – A spectacular glacier-carved fjord with towering cliffs and icebergs.
    • Mount Roberts Tramway – A scenic ride to panoramic views and hiking trails above Juneau.
    • Whale Watching Tours – Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales.
    • Glacier Bay National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking glacier landscapes.
    • Alaska State Museum – Showcasing Alaska’s Native heritage, Gold Rush history, and wildlife exhibits.
    • Eagle Beach – A great spot for wildlife viewing, including bald eagles and seals.
    • AJ Mine & Gastineau Mill Tour – A Gold Rush-era mining experience with underground tours.
    • Downtown Juneau & The Red Dog Saloon – A historic district with shops, seafood restaurants, and a famous saloon.
    • Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area – A remote area where visitors can safely observe Alaskan brown bears in the wild.

    • Fresh Alaskan King Crab – A must-try seafood delicacy, served with butter.
    • Wild Salmon – Enjoy grilled, smoked, or baked fresh-caught Alaskan salmon.
    • Reindeer Sausage – A smoky, flavorful sausage made from Alaskan reindeer meat.
    • Halibut Tacos – Fresh halibut served in tacos with local ingredients.
    • Fireweed Honey – A sweet, floral honey unique to Alaska.
    • Salmonberry Jam – A regional treat made from tart wild berries.
    • Fry Bread – A Native Alaskan treat, often served with honey or jam.
    • Alaskan Amber Beer – A popular local craft beer brewed in Juneau.

    • Flights: Arrive at Juneau International Airport (JNU), with direct flights from Seattle, Anchorage, and more.
    • Cruises: Juneau is a popular stop for Alaska cruises departing from Seattle and Vancouver.
    • Ferries: The Alaska Marine Highway System connects Juneau to other coastal towns.
    • Car Rentals: Available, but most attractions are accessible without a car.
    • Public Buses (Capital Transit): A budget-friendly way to get around town.
    • Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are available but limited.

    • For U.S. travelers: No passport or visa required.
    • For international travelers: A valid passport is required, and a visa may be necessary depending on your country.
    • For cruise passengers: Check with your cruise line for required identification and documentation.

    • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD).
    • Credit cards are widely accepted, but some remote areas prefer cash.
    • ATMs are available in Juneau, but limited in smaller towns.
    • Currency exchange services are available at major banks and the airport.

    • English is the primary language spoken.
    • Tlingit, a Native Alaskan language, is spoken by some locals.
    • Most tourist attractions and restaurants have English-speaking staff.

    • Respect wildlife—never approach bears or other wild animals.
    • Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and for taxi/rideshare drivers).
    • Dress in layers—weather changes quickly, even in summer.
    • Sustainability is important—follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking or camping.
    • Engage respectfully with Alaska Native communities—many tours highlight Tlingit culture.

    • Restaurants: 18–20% tip is standard for good service.
    • Bars: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
    • Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
    • Taxis & Rideshares: 10–15% tip is appreciated.
    • Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

    • For peak summer season (June–August): Book 6–12 months in advance for flights and cruises.
    • For whale-watching tours and excursions: Book at least 3–6 months ahead.
    • For last-minute trips: Limited availability—booking at least a few weeks ahead is recommended.

    • COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for any updates before traveling.
    • Some remote areas require permits or guided tours for safety reasons.
    • Bear safety guidelines must be followed when hiking or camping.